Extinguish the Fire of Anger

Ephesians 4:26-27, 4:31-32

Photo by Caleb Cook on Unsplash

Anger is like a wildfire. It consumes people by focusing their attention on nothing but how they feel they were wronged by someone or something. Anger usually starts with a spark — a word, a cross glance, feeling ignored or the subject of mockery — and our self-centeredness turns it into a raging conflagration. Once anger is out of control, it’s easy to sin.

A couple’s fight turns into an abusive or adulterous relationship. Anger at co-workers develops into lying, cheating, and backstabbing to “get back” at them. Being angry at yourself inflames the desire to turn off the world with an addiction. Unchecked anger grows into an uncontrollable inferno that destroys souls

In Paul’s letter to the early church in Ephesus, he warned the believers to let go of their anger quickly:

'And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil'

Ephesians 4:26-27

He goes on to describe actions the followers of Christ must follow to become more Christ-like, ending with these words:

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.'

Ephesians 4:31-32

Forgiveness is the God-given tool for extinguishing the fire of anger. Who can you forgive today?